There’s one thing all of us are certain to hear during every election cycle: it’s the most important of our lifetime. In fact, we hear it so often that many of us have become immune to what it’s implying – except for the fact that this year, it might actually be true. Of course, while every prior election has been significant in its own way, the results of the 2016 election have redefined “importance” in ways none of us ever imagined. On a national level, our democracy is functional but fragile, as the current administration continues to threaten the American institutions that keep us stable; on a state level, our challenges demand solutions that can no longer be postponed by ineffective, status quo governing.

While the choices we need to make seem obvious, they remain dependent on our collective motivation to make them. This starts with my generation: millennial s

Political complacency has been a stigma that has continually plagued millennial s, even as we have surpassed the baby boomers in becoming the largest voting demographic in the nation. Our lack of interest is used as a tool for blame on election outcomes, and when we finally do show the motivation to take action, it’s usually seen as nothing more than an incoherent and poorly executed excuse to complain.

To some degree, the numbers reflect this reality: in 2012, 49% of 18-35 year old’s turned out to vote; in 2016, that number increased to 50 - a whopping 1%. The numbers for midterm elections, as you can imagine, are far less.

However, this generation now has the opportunity to change this conversation more decidedly – and the proof of this change seems to be occurring throughout the nation. Millennial s are beginning to age – finishing their education, starting careers, settling in locations, and starting families – making the importance of the issues, and how those issues affect the future – more firmly in reach. Much of this, in turn, has motivated more millennial s to run for office than ever before – in fact, I was one of them during this year’s primary here in Palm Beach County.

At the same time, the excuses often used to ignore political conversation are dwindling, too. Because this generation is more proficient and adaptable with technology, social media, and the rapid evolution of both, conversation about the issues that surround our politics is more available, more effortless, and less avoidable than at any point prior.

Yet, for as much as these indicators show that the level of engagement might be changing, they will only have a minimal impact as long as people stay home on Election Day.

In years past, not showing up to vote may have seemed like a more acceptable option, since the choices available to us often felt like simple ideological differences that were conventional, ordinary, and safe. Today, the possibility of a president left unchecked, or a state that continues to find little urgency in correcting the vastness of our environmental crises, addressing our educational priorities, and establishing more acceptable standards of living are nothing short of a series of reckless scenarios that can be easily avoided.

For millennials, the results of inaction are perhaps the most consequential. This is the generation that will be around to witness rising seas, to work toward vanishing social security, to send their kids to schools that lack proper funding – and protection.

Those are risks that none of us can possibly accept.

With that, I leave my fellow millennial s with the following message: jeopardizing our entire future would be a tragic price to pay for our failure to spend less than 15 minutes filling out a ballot. In just over a month, let’s finally put this stigma behind us by taking action, showing up to vote, and making the difference. Your happy hour that Tuesday will be a real reason to celebrate.

If you’d like to hear more of Ryan’s thought’s you can follow him on Facebook here.

An interview with Palm Beach Young Dems President Rob Long

By: Alex Heathcock

You’re from Punxsutawney, PA. What is your favorite thing about your hometown?

Mainly because of the Bill Murray movie Groundhog Day, a lot of people already know what Punxsutawney is and I don’t have to explain it. It’s taken on a sort of mythical reputation so it’s almost like telling people I grew up with Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny- making my childhood seemingly much more interesting than what it actually was.

What made you decide to move down to Florida from Pennsylvania?

Have you been to Pennsylvania?

You went to Penn State. I’m so sorry. (Apologies, this is Alex, and I have a clear Pitt bias.) What is your favorite memory of being a Penn State student?

Ha. Well, in recent memory it was our victory over Pitt at 51-6 on Sat. Yikes. Other than that, tailgating and going to Penn State games at Beaver Stadium...or even just watching them at one of the bars downtown. In general, going to a school with such a strong sense of spirit and identity was a really fun experience.

Where was your favorite place to go out in Happy Valley during your college days?

Probably the Rathskeller and the Phyrst. I guess I had a thing for dingy pubs back then.

What made you decide to get involved in politics?

I was raised with a sense of civic duty and social awareness sort of drilled into me. My dad was a very active civil rights attorney when we were kids and he used to do things like print out news articles for my brothers and I to read while we ate breakfast every morning. In a way, we were raised to be very aware of the injustices of the world. The only thing I ever remember him watching on TV was John Wayne movies and MSNBC. Anyway, for me it’s sort of a blessing and a burden that I don’t really feel fulfilled unless I’m somehow involved in trying to improve my community. Local politics seems like the most effective and possibly widest-scale way to do that.

A question for our President--who is your favorite United States President, living or deceased?

President Obama

What is your favorite alcoholic beverage?

I’m a sucker for old fashioneds and/or Manhattans (preferably made with rye whiskey.) Lately though, I’ve actually been on a Mezcal kick.

All of your fellow board members know you love a good old fashioned. What type of whiskey is your favorite?

My favorite Rye whiskeys right now are: Michter’s, High West, and Bulleit

Do you take your whiskey neat or on the rocks?

If it’s straight bourbon or rye, I like it with one big ice cube...or better yet a chunk of ice chiseled off of an ice block. If it’s scotch, neat.

What is the strangest/funniest way you’ve been asked out on a date?

I don’t really get asked on dates, I just randomly get phone numbers now and again...and I guess I’m supposed to take it from there. A girl a few rows behind me on plane passed me her phone number on a napkin once. I’ll get a number on my receipt from a waitress or bartender every once in a while.

What is your favorite cuisine?

I like different things from different cuisines, hard to pick a favorite. Depends on my mood. I love sushi and ramen, I’m also a huge fan of Greek food, but I’d really do unspeakable things for good Neapolitan style pizza.

If you could have one food from said cuisine for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I can’t imagine eating one of any one thing forever, that’s a nightmare. I would starve to death after 1 week.

You currently live in Delray Beach. Name your favorite thing about living in Delray.

I think Delray strikes a good balance between being a historic village/cultural center and also being up and coming, vibrant, and providing great nightlife options for young professionals...and Delray has an amazing beach.

In your opinion, where in Delray can one find the best old fashioned?

Either Death or Glory or Corner Porch (if our favorite bartender Erica is there)

Where is your favorite place to just hang out in Palm Beach County, that’s not at home?

Subculture Delray, it basically is my home now.

What is your go-to order at Subculture Coffee?

Black coffee (cold brew if I’m feeling saucy)

For a car ride jam out session with friends, what are five of your go-to songs?

House of Cards (I would’ve said Game of Thrones, were it not for the most recent season)

Who is your favorite character on said TV show?

Frank Underwood. RIP.

Which character do you think you’re most like on that TV show?

Claire Underwood.

What is your favorite movie?

This is tough, because I love a lot movies. Top 3: There Will Be Blood, Butch Cassidy & Sundance Kid, and The Departed

Who is your favorite film director?

I have a few. Martin Scorsese, Wes Anderson, and a tie between Christopher Nolan and Paul Thomas Anderson. Oh, and the Coen Brothers...

What is your favorite movie franchise?

Again, I guess I have several. I love the Bond franchise for nostalgic reasons and I respect how long it’s endured...that being said, a lot of those movies are terrible. Also, the Star Wars series with the exception of the prequels and The Last Jedi. Don’t @ me. I’m a total comic book nerd, so a HUGE fan of the MCU, the scope and vision of what they’ve created is incredible. Gamechanger.

The board is well aware of the fact that you’re a huge Marvel fan. What is your favorite Marvel movie?

Thor: Ragnarok is my most recent favorite. I love the Guardians movies too.

If you had access to own one of the infinity stones from the Marvel universe, which one would you choose and why?

Definitely the time stone, seems like the most versatile and you could use it to get the other stones. It’s like if you have a genie with 3 wishes, first wish-more wishes. Game the system.

If you had to have the superpowers of one Marvel superhero, what would you choose?

Thor, he’s a God...and he’s like 1,000 years old. He can also sort of fly. And he’s the tallest.

Who is someone that inspires you in local politics and why?

Dave Aronberg, our State Attorney. He’s accomplished a lot at a young age and he’s leading the charge against our opioid crisis...and I think paving the way nationally. He’s like equal parts class, charisma, and humility. He was also on John Oliver...

Where can we find you hanging out on the weekends?

Still at Subculture because I never stop working. Also, the beach.

Which sports teams do you support?

Nittany Lions and Gators, my alma maters. Also, the Steelers, and (reluctantly) Pitt basketball...only after they advance to the sweet 16

What issues are you passionate about in our current political climate?

I think stand your ground needs to be overturned, I’d also love to see non-violent felons have their voting rights restored, and I’m very passionate about environmental protections.

Construct your perfect meal, using only dishes from Palm Beach County restaurants.

Charcuterie board from Death or Glory in Delray. Lobster roll from Over The Bridge in Delray. Oxtail from Rocksteady Jamaican Bistro in Boca. A rack of ribs from Ceasar’s in Delray. Some Duck chicharrones from Kapow in West Palm Beach. Ice Cream from Proper Ice Cream in Delray. Ok...so I don’t get outta Delray much. Also, include like any cocktail from Sweetwater in Boynton.

What hair products do you use to construct your ~flawless~ ‘do? (Alex Ayala asked that I not ask this question because it would only inflate your ego, but the world should know.)

Unfortunately, I’m sworn to secrecy. I can say the process involves industrial-grade lasers, a witch doctor, and an assortment of essential oils derived from deep within the Amazonian rain forest...and I can still get ready far quicker than Alex Ayala.

You currently serve as a Palm Beach County Soil & Water Supervisor--what is your favorite part of serving in this position?

Ahem...Vice Chair. The Ambassador to the Everglades program where we transport 600 high school students to Mounts Botanical Gardens and the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge to learn about conservation is really awesome. Also, our staff does an incredible job with the irrigation surveys they perform all over the county, so I’m happy just to make sure they’re getting everything they need.

What is your favorite part of being President of PBCYD?

I love encouraging our generation to actually get out and make a difference and fight for what we all believe in. It’s been extremely rewarding to see how many people have come out of the woodwork recently that weren’t previously engaged in politics or public policy at all. People are just so outraged by what’s going on in our country and empowering them and just offering them that outlet has been great.

An interview with Palm Beach Young Dems Policy Chair Alex Heathcock

By: Alex Ayala

You’re from Miami, Florida. What is your favorite thing about your hometown?

I really loved the sense of community in my Abuela’s old neighborhood--I have very fond memories of gathering with the other neighborhood kids in my Abuela’s cul-de-sac and playing outside all day until sundown. I’m very thankful I was able to get exposure to the strong Cuban-American culture in Miami from a very young age. While the city continues to develop and grow, it’s comforting for me to know that I can still drive down to Sergio’s on Coral Way and pick up a cafecito and croquetas, just like I would when I was younger.

What made you decide to get involved in politics?

I actually fell into politics randomly. I had always been involved in Student Government in middle school and high school, but never figured I would pursue politics as a potential career path. Initially, I wanted to be a journalist when I went to college---and I didn’t want to cover politics, I wanted to cover fashion. During a particular rough patch my sophomore year of college, a friend of mine who was a field organizer for President Obama’s re-election campaign in 2012 reached out to me about volunteering on the campaign. As they say, the rest is history. I loved the high-stakes thrill of working on campaigns, and more importantly loved meeting new people and hearing about what issues mattered to them the most.

Everyone knows you are a huge “Hamilton” fan. What is your favorite song from the soundtrack?

This answer changes at least once every four or so months. Right now, I’m on a serious “Burn” kick. I also love “Wait for It” and “Guns and Ships.”

Everyone knows you are obsessed with podcasts, namely Crooked Media podcasts. Who is your favorite Pod Save America team member?

Well, this question is easy--it’s a dead three-way tie between Lucca, Leo, and Pundit.

Although you’re still enrolled in school at FIU, you attended school in Pittsburgh initially for three years. Where was your favorite place to go to in Pittsburgh?

Even though I have no intention of moving back, Pittsburgh will always hold a very special place in my heart. Some of my favorite go-to spots when I was living up there were Schenley Park/Panther Hollow Trail for a run; PNC Park to catch a Pirates game; William Penn Tavern for kitchen sink wings; or Lawrenceville in general. One of my favorite things about Pittsburgh is that there are incredible things to explore in every corner of the city, if you give yourself time to do it. It is a magical city, and it’s hard not to fall in love when you first take a glance at that skyline from PNC Park or Mount Washington.

What is your favorite alcoholic beverage?

An old fashioned.

In your opinion, where can one find the best old fashioned in Palm Beach County?

At 215 speakeasy, made by Vincent, 123 Datura, or at Park Tavern!

What is the strangest/funniest way you’ve been asked out on a date?

So I actually have two funny/weird stories to share. The first, a guy once asked me out on a date by throwing a napkin at me from across a bar. I looked over angrily at him, and he made a gesture as though he wanted me to open up the napkin. I did--on the napkin he wrote, “Lick your elbow if you are not interested in going on a date with me. Smile if you are.” It was a little aggressive, but creative, I guess.

The second, I was at a fraternity event and one of the brothers tried to ask me out by singing “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen to me. This was about two weeks after the song first came out, and I hadn’t heard it yet. I thought he was singing a song off of a Kidz Bop album. I had no choice but to run away as quickly as possible.

What is your favorite cuisine?

I love all types--Cuban, French, Italian, Japanese, and Mexican are some of my favorites.

If you could have one food from said cuisine for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Since I listed a lot of cuisines, I’ll just list two items--Cuban coffee and gnocchi.

Where is your favorite stop for Cuban coffee in Palm Beach County?

Delicias Cuban Bakery! Guys, it’s the most unassuming place because it’s quite literally inside of a gas station, but trust me—they have the BEST cafe con leche and croquetas.

For a car ride jam out session with friends, what are five of your go-to songs?

“Hey Ya!” by Outkast, “September” by Earth Wind and Fire, “Africa” by Toto, “Feeling This” by Blink-182, and “All These Things That I’ve Done” by The Killers.

What is your favorite song lyric?

“Mon coeur s’ouvre a ta voix”--my heart opens to the sound of your voice-- from “I Belong to You” by Muse.

Any YDs know that both yourself and VP Alex are big Taylor Swift fans. What Taylor Swift music video is your favorite?

“Blank Space”, of course! I’ve actually been to the mansion where the music video was filmed. I also loved the “Delicate” music video.

What is your favorite TV show?

Parks and Recreation or The Office. Also a huge Game of Thrones and Westworld fan.

What is your favorite quote from said TV show?

“If I seem too passionate, it’s because I care. If I come on strong, it’s because I feel strongly. And if I push too hard, it’s because things aren’t moving fast enough.”

And of course…

“If I can’t scuba, what’s this all been about? What am I working towards?”

Which character do you think you’re most like on that TV show?

Somewhere between Leslie and Ann from Parks and Recreation. I can be very high strung and Type A, but definitely do not have as much energy as Leslie does.

What is your favorite movie?

I have an ever-changing top 10 list, but Almost Famous always tends to stay at the top of that list.

What is your favorite scene from a movie?

The “Tiny Dancer” bus scene from Almost Famous, and the Griffith Observatory scene from La La Land.

What is your favorite movie franchise?

I’m a huge Harry Potter and Star Wars nerd! I’ve also really started getting into the Marvel movies.

Everyone knows hiking is one of your hobbies--where would your dream hike be?

This is probably not the first location people think of when it comes to hiking, but I would love an opportunity someday to hike in the Swat Valley region of Pakistan. Hiking in the Alps in Northern Italy is also on my list. In addition, I would like to complete at least one hike in every U.S. national park. I recently went to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, and I think the next parks I want to hit are Yosemite, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Glacier, Crater Lake, and Olympic.

We also know you’re a big runner and have completed three half marathons. What race would you consider to be your dream race (5k, 10k, half, full)?

I definitely would like to do a half marathon in a US national park. I also would like to run the New York City Half Marathon, the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia, and both the Pittsburgh and Philadelphia Half Marathons. Eventually, I’d like to work up to being able to run a full marathon--but I’m still a few years away from hitting that goal.

Who is someone that inspires you in local politics and why?

My boss, of course--Michelle McGovern! She is so full of passion and energy and loves what she does. She is amazing at supporting and helping out those that she loves. I’ve never seen someone quite go out of her way for others like Michelle does. She’s not only my boss, but she’s THE boss. She is great at what she does because she puts so much passion and love forth towards her job, her family, her friends--everything!

Where can we find you hanging out on the weekends?

Probably on a running trail somewhere, at the gym, a bookstore, or at a coffee shop studying--I’m still in school, so weekends are usually my homework/study time. I also like to take little weekend trips to different cities around FL sometimes or to cool hiking spots out of state.

What is something people don't know about you?

I throw way too many pop culture references/movie and TV quotes into everyday conversation. Gabe from The Office would hate me. (Oh, look, another pop culture reference.) I also put an insane amount of hot sauce on all of my food. If you ever ask to split a dish with me, I’m sorry—it’s probably going to get drowned in Cholula or Sriracha.

Which sports teams do you support?

Well, I was a Pittsburgh Pirates fan--not a great move trading McCutchen to San Francisco. #stillbitter

Where is your favorite place that you’ve traveled to?

I was lucky enough to be taken on a trip to France by my aunt and uncle when I was fifteen. I’ve been completely enchanted with Paris ever since. There is also something so stunningly magical about the American West. I completely fell in love with Montana and Wyoming this past summer, and have always adored traveling to Colorado and Arizona. I also had an amazing experience in Guatemala and Lake Atitlan.

Where would you like to travel to in the future?

Everywhere? Seriously though, some of my top destinations include South Africa, Morocco, Slovenia, India, Singapore, New Zealand, Chile, Japan, Italy, Croatia, and Scotland. I also hope to hit every major U.S. national park in my lifetime and attend a game at every MLB stadium in the country.

Which fictional place do you wish you could travel to?

Hogwarts--#teamravenclaw!Despite the fact that Pottermore has repeatedly sorted me into Gryffindor, I am adamant that I am a Ravenclaw at heart.

….I also realize that my stubbornness may be why I was sorted into Gryffindor.

What issues are you passionate about in our current political climate?

Construct your perfect meal, using only dishes from Palm Beach County restaurants.

The gnocchi appetizer from City Cellar, pierogies from The Butcher Shop, the Cajun burger from the Seafood Bar at the Breakers or the spicy burger from The Brass Ring, buffalo garlic wings from the Brass Ring, mac and cheese (with lots of hot sauce!) from Howley’s, and the skillet cookie dessert from HMF at the Breakers.

Who is someone (dead or alive) you would love to sit down to dinner with, and where would you choose to go to dinner with that person?

Amal Clooney. I truly respect her and actually wanted to go to law school to practice international law for a little while. I appreciate all the work she is doing for the Yazidi people with her client, Nadia Murad, and for working to release Khadija Ismayilova and call out free speech/human rights violations in Azerbaijan. She seems like such a fascinating and remarkable woman, and I would love to hear some of her stories of her travels and various cases she’s worked on.

What do you see yourself doing in five years?

I hopefully see myself living in D.C., Philadelphia, or New York City, either working for a nonprofit, in public affairs, or in foreign policy for the State Department/United Nations, while traveling a lot.

Do you ever want to run for office?

I get asked this a lot, and my inclination is to say no. I’m a pretty introverted person, and I like working behind the scenes more on the policy side. I also don’t think that I should make “running for office” a general goal just because I work in politics. I want to encourage and bolster people to run for office who come from different backgrounds who may have not have thought about public service otherwise, on top of encouraging my incredible friends who do work in politics to run!

What is the most important life lesson you’ve learned at 25?

Do not beg people to support or love you. I’ve been in too many situations in the past where I’ve tried to make things work with other people, jamming two puzzle pieces that don’t fit together out of sheer stubbornness or due to the fact that I didn’t have enough knowledge of my self-worth to walk away from situations that were toxic or not beneficial to me. I still struggle with it sometimes, but you should never waste your time and energy on people who won’t help and support you, and at the very least don’t see your potential.

An interview with Palm Beach Young Dems Treasurer Steven Licari

By: Alex Heathcock

You’re from Royal Palm Beach, FL. What is your favorite thing about your hometown?

I love that we are a small community that's not afraid to think big. A good example is Commons Park; they have been doing a great job of bringing events like The Seafood Festival to our area.

What made you decide to get involved in politics?

Mainly the 2000 election. It was the first time I could vote in a presidential election, and I could not believe the amount of people who would not vote or believed it would not make any difference. From that moment on, I knew I had to get involved.

You’ve worked on a lot of local political campaigns--what has been your favorite memory of working on a campaign so far, and why?

It would have to be working an event during the 2014 campaign for Charlie Crist--we hosted an event with Vise President Joe Biden. It was a long and hectic day ,but I enjoyed every moment.

If you could have dinner with one politician, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

President Kennedy. I would love to ask him how he wanted to see the county develop from his vision in 1960 and how he would feel about the state of our nation today.

What is your favorite alcoholic beverage?

Vodka, mostly.

Red or white wine?

White, unless I'm eating.

Anyone who knows you knows you’re a huge Star Wars fan. Which movie is your favorite?

DefinitelyThe Empire Strikes Back.

Who is your favorite Star Wars character?

Yoda.

Favorite line from a Star Wars movie?

“I love you.” “I know.”

What is your favorite cuisine?

Sushi/Japanese.

What is your favorite food to eat from said cuisine?

Rainbow roll.

Where is your favorite place to go out to eat in Palm Beach County?

Peppermint Thai-Sushi in Royal Palm Beach.

Where is your favorite place to just hang out in Palm Beach County, that’s not at home?

Honestly, right now I can not say I have one place in mind that I prefer to go to. However, I am always up for trying new places.

If you could eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Fish!

What is your favorite music genre?

Mostly pop and hip hop.

Best concert you’ve ever attended?

Lady Gaga. She is so amazing live.

What is your favorite TV show?

The Walking Dead

Who is your favorite character on said TV show?

Michonne.

What is your favorite quote from said TV show?

"Anger makes you stupid. Stupid gets you killed."

If you had to compare President Trump to a TV show character, who would it be?

Eric Cartmen.

What is your favorite movie?

The Godfather Part 2.

What is your favorite scene from a movie?

New Years eve in Cuba.

What is your favorite movie franchise?

Star Wars.

What is the best movie in theaters you’ve seen so far this year?

I lovedA Quiet Place.

What is your favorite Marvel franchise movie?

Captain America.

If you could have the superpowers of one Marvel character, whose would it be?

Thor--I would love the use of lighting.

Speaking of Marvel Comics movies--if you had access to own one of the infinity stones, which one would you choose and why?

I would have to go with the Time stone. I love the idea of seeing multiple scenarios of any decision I may have doubts about. Plus, I could mess with bad people by putting them in a time loop.

Brunch or dinner?

Dinner. I am not a morning person.

Who is someone that inspires you in local politics and why?

There are so many--I really can not pick one. I feel that we have so many amazing local leaders in Palm Beach County--they are part of the reason why I stay involved in local politics.

Where can we find you hanging out on the weekends?

Downtown West Palm or in the Wellington Area.

What sport is your favorite to watch?

Basketball.

Which sports teams do you support?

The Miami Heat, New York Yankees and Giants.

Where is your favorite place that you’ve traveled to?

Beijing.The history alone is amazing! Plus, you can not count out the incredible food and shopping.

Where would you like to travel to in the future?

California.

Which fictional place do you wish you could travel to?

Asgard.

What issues are you passionate about in our current political climate?

Healthcare. Everyone should have access to healthcare that will actually help people when they are sick without anyone having to choose between being healthy or going bankrupt.

What do you see yourself doing in five years?

Hopefully, still in Palm Beach County, and working with more elected officials to make this county the best in the state.

What is your favorite part of being on the board for the Palm Beach County Young Democrats?

I love the fact that we are more like a family than a board. Even though we all cannot make it to every event, everyone supports each other. I am looking forward to seeing our chapter grow in the future. We will need to continue to work to get young voters out again to the polls.

To get to further know your ~casual and fun~ PBCYD board members, we are introducing a new feature here on the YD Review called "Beyond the Bio." We will be interviewing each of our six board members with interview questions curtailed to their personality/interests so you can get to know who they are beyond their official bio. First up: resident powerhouse and Madam Vice President, Alexandria Ayala!

By: Alex Heathcock

1) You were born in Puerto Rico. What is your favorite memory of your childhood in Puerto Rico?

Our family’s property is in Sabana Grande, PR up in the mountains. Our house is just under my grandparent’s. I spent such a happy childhood growing up being so close to them- helping my grandpa with the roosters, with the avocado trees or just swimming in their pool. That cherished abuela y abuelo time are some of my favorite memories.

2. How do you feel about the Trump Administration’s response to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria? What do you think needs to be improved on?

Ummm….could definitely have been handled better. I’m personally not a fan of the paper towel toss...I think blame lies more on the longstanding dysfunctional relationship between PR and the US than any one individual though and those implications are political, social, economic, etc. However, given that there were natural disasters in both Texas and Florida and the situations were handled wildly differently, I question efficiency. I think it’s a much deeper problem than one singular issue but a step in the right direction would be discussing a more equal division of resources from federal agencies to Puerto Rico. For example, Puerto Rico's Medicare reimbursement rates for doctors are roughly 40 percent lower than states in the US. There are urgent issues that need bipartisan conversations and solutions.

3. You moved to the United States when you were 7. Tell us something you love about your US hometown, Palm Springs.

I love the diversity of Palm Springs, kind people from countries all over the Caribbean and South/Central America live here so it’s common to hear 5 different languages spoken on any given corner. Also, being 10 minutes from the beach never hurts!

4. What made you decide to get involved politically?

I very happily ended up in politics and public service after I went to college thinking I’d become a nurse and quickly realized I didn’t quite have that skill set! I was in my 2nd year at University of Central Florida during the 2012 presidential election when I was seeking a major change. That election particularly interested me because 2008 had already been such an important, pivotal moment in history and 2012 felt like a moment where we’d either continue progress or change course completely. At the time, the University of Central Florida College Democrats were super active on campus by registering voters, hosting rallies with guests such as President Bill Clinton and Governor/Congressman Charlie Crist, bussing students to the polls. That service and activism spoke to me. I always wanted to help people and this way my way to do that. Best decision I made yet and I truly love what I do.

5. If you could have dinner with one politician, living or deceased, who would it be and why?

Definitely President Obama and Michelle. That’s two but I think it’s a fair request. As stated above, his 2012 campaign and inspiring message were the catalyst for my own political involvement and the way he inspired people in this country to get involved captivates me.

6. You attended college at UCF. What is your favorite memory of being a UCF student?

I absolutely love being a UCF Knight. Best experience of my life! Favorite memory has to be traveling to Arizona with the UCF Marching Knights and the football team for the 2014 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. Which we won!!

7. What was your favorite on or off campus hang out spot at UCF during your college years?

Commissioner/State Rep. Dave Kerner. He’s accomplished so much so young, always stood by his principles and been able to work with multiple groups to get good things done for his constituents. Also, he’s always extremely approachable and encouraging of young people in politics.

33. Where can we find you hanging out on the weekends?

The streets of PBC, registering people to vote!

34. Where is your favorite place that you’ve traveled to?

I haven’t traveled nearly as much as I hope to yet.

35. Where would you like to travel to in the future?

Italy is my #1 destination followed by Australia because Koalas

36. What fictional place do you wish you could travel to?

Hogwarts. #teamslytherin

37. What issues are you passionate about in our current political climate?

Women’s equity and US PR relations

38. Do you want to run for office someday?

Someday!

39. What do you see yourself doing in five years?

The beauty of this career is that it’s full of ever changing opportunity. I can see myself doing a variety of things. I know it will involve continuing to be the best public servant I can be and uplifting marginalized voices.

40. What is your favorite part about being a board member for the Palm Beach County Young Democrats?

The opportunity to engage with the thousands of other brilliant, driven, inspiring young dems across this county and great state. It gives me hope to know such amazing people, which then fuels my path forward towards a future where government and politics are exciting, positive words and not things we stay out of!